The Philosophy of Schmütz: What a One-Eyed Cat Taught Me About Love, Presence, and Letting Go

by M. E. Seegulam

What if the wisest philosopher in your life was covered in fur, missing an eye, and curled up in a sunbeam?

Part memoir, part meditation, The Philosophy of Schmütz is a short, sharp, and deeply heartfelt book about what a rescue cat named Schmütz can teach us—if we’re willing to listen. From hiss-worthy boundaries to the art of basking, Schmütz offers a perspective both hilarious and disarmingly profound.

Written with warmth, wit, and a touch of mischief, this is a book for anyone who’s ever loved an animal, needed a little perspective, or wondered what it means to truly let go. It’s also a beautiful read-aloud for thoughtful children and the grownups who love them.

Side effects may include sudden gratitude, unexpected tears, and the urge to nap in a sunbeam.

44 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 6, 2025

Reviews

[Stacy B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book 3 times in a 3 day period. I wanted to really absorb the message this book has to offer.
This book was the best therapy I have ever received.
Though I am definitely more of a dog person, I think I need to start living like a cat. Particularly like Schmitz!

[Cara Job Sherwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author of this book was my professor in college 10 years ago. He always started his class presentation with an off-the-wall or funny picture. One day we came into class and he had a picture of a One-Eyed Cat up on the screen….Enter Schmutz… and the rest is history. Our class fell in love with the frail little thing just listening to Dr. Seegs talk about her. (She even came to class a few times!) I’ve kept up with her shenanigans on Facebook for years now, and hearing about her quirks always brightens my day. Love the book! Great Advice for Anyone and Everyone!

[Quinn H · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a girl in her late twenties, navigating life (and academia) with her cat, what an essential and fitting read this was <3 If you’re anywhere at all in life and searching for some inspiration that happens to come adorned in whiskers, this is the book for you. 5 thousand stars out of 10. p < 0.0001 (iykyk). Best enjoyed with your favorite drink in a sunbeam of your choice (coffee and the front porch for me) 🌞🐈‍⬛☕️

[Susan L · Rating 5 out of 5]

I purchased this book without knowing what genre it was; I am past the age of reading self help books. I don't own a cat and never have. This very short book took me less than 2 hours to read and then only because I had to stop after every chapter- which probably average 2 pages, to reflect. I can't recall when I've read anything (MarkTwain & John Kennedy Toole excluded) that made me laugh out loud, learn something about humanity or the human condition- and/or see it in a new way and then without wanting, applied it to me. Saying it is a profound read, just sounds insincere and false- but reading it was, for me. This book will be with me for a long time- as a handbook in my pocketbook to use in more ways than is possible to note on this review. This is a must read, and be prepared, to truly laugh out loud, reflect, and eventually tear up. It is not sentimental- it is an intelligent, humorous, practical story that is written with style and skill. I will be sending close family & friends this book and picking it up as a guide for a long time.

[Brandie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who knew such a small book could hold numerous helpful truths? Just as our small fur babies hold tremendous love in our hearts. The short chapters brought smiles from Schmutz’s antics, tears from the relatability, and hope from the gentle reminders that we are all perfectly flawed. This book will uplift any soul, no matter how damaged you think you are. I can see myself finding a warm sunbeam and rereading this honest and life changing book often.

[Melissa DuBuque · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unapologetically Schmutz....could I be?